Critical Analysis of the Parliamentary Democracy: Challenges and Strengths in Pakistan (2002-2018)

Abstract

Democracy is the political system that is most universally accepted as being the best, most practicable and just in the modern world. First and foremost democracy requires a parliament, which is a powerful institution in its own right, since it represents the people. The Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the country. Nations that have instituted an effective democratic system and respect their parliament are running successfully all over the world. The three pillars of democracy are a parliament, an independent judiciary and efficient executive and these three institutions should function within their purview and according to the constitution. Free and fair elections, political liberty and freedom of the press are also necessary adjuncts to the system. Indeed, unrigged elections are the very basis for ensuring proper representation of the people. Democracy secures the welfare of people in the legislative process. Pakistan espoused the system of democracy in the country. The Pakistani public and its politicians have played an important role in the process of democratization. In the constitutional history of Pakistan many military and civilian dictators have disrupted the evolution of the state’s democratic and parliamentary culture. In fact the mainstream has always welcomed military rule and military always interrupts the progress of the civilian government. This paper will throw light on a comprehensive performance review of Pakistan parliament to strengthen the democracy from 2002-2018. This article discussed the role of democracy and analyzes those factors of weaknesses that affected the true spirit of democracy in Pakistan and also give some key suggestions to strengthen parliamentary democracy in Pakistan. Data related to this study collected by secondary sources such as books, journals, reports, and articles. This research work is analytical as well as descriptive in nature.